Pac-12 clarifies controversial decision during Oregon-Washington State game

The Pac-12 released a statement Sunday regarding a mistake made in the game between Oregon and Washington State on Saturday. The conference simultaneously confirmed that proper protocols were followed during the game to correct the error.

With 12:16 in the second quarter, the Cougars were in possession with a first down at the 42-yard line and called for intentional grounding. The error happened then as the down indicator on the far side of the field changed too quickly to second down, then again to third down before another play occurred.

The mistake was not immediately corrected, and Washington State punted after failing to convert third down. However, the Replay Official realized the error prior to the start of the Ducks’ series and took the correct action according to the conference.

“The Instant Replay Official, in conjunction with the Command Center, stopped the game to review the down situation after the punt and before Oregon snapped the ball for a new series,” the Pac-12 said in its release. “With video evidence of the down box indicator changing incorrectly, the officials ruled that 3rd down should be replayed at the previous spot.

“At no point in time did the replay booth lose communication with the Referee on the field or the Command Center in San Francisco. Ultimately, the correct ruling was reached after review.”

Washington State converted the second third-down attempt, but still ended up punting eventually later on that drive.

The Pac-12 said it is reviewing the incident, and the Vice President of Officiating will “determine if any discipline is warranted.” However, they added that protocols were followed and this is “an instance of human error.”

The Ducks went on to win 44-41 after Mase Funa came away with an interception returned for a touchdown to make it a two-possession game with 1:01 remaining. Oregon improved to 3-1 (1-0 Pac-12), while Washington State dropped its first game of the season to fall to 3-1 (0-1).